When using the Sine and Cosine Rules, I’ve noticed some common mistakes that can trip you up:
Mixing Up the Rules: It's important to know when to use the Sine Rule. That’s when you use the formula (\frac{a}{\sin A} = \frac{b}{\sin B}). This rule is helpful for triangles that don't have a right angle and when you have at least one angle and one side.
On the other hand, use the Cosine Rule when you want to find unknown sides or angles in triangles that have all three sides. The formula is (c^2 = a^2 + b^2 - 2ab \cos C).
Checking Angle Measurements: Always make sure your angles are in the correct unit, like degrees or radians. If you mix them up, your answers will be wrong!
Be Careful with Negative Values: The Cosine Rule can give you negative values, especially in obtuse triangles. So, always double-check your answers to be sure they make sense!
Labeling Your Sides and Angles: When solving problems, clearly label your sides and angles. This will help you avoid getting confused later on.
When using the Sine and Cosine Rules, I’ve noticed some common mistakes that can trip you up:
Mixing Up the Rules: It's important to know when to use the Sine Rule. That’s when you use the formula (\frac{a}{\sin A} = \frac{b}{\sin B}). This rule is helpful for triangles that don't have a right angle and when you have at least one angle and one side.
On the other hand, use the Cosine Rule when you want to find unknown sides or angles in triangles that have all three sides. The formula is (c^2 = a^2 + b^2 - 2ab \cos C).
Checking Angle Measurements: Always make sure your angles are in the correct unit, like degrees or radians. If you mix them up, your answers will be wrong!
Be Careful with Negative Values: The Cosine Rule can give you negative values, especially in obtuse triangles. So, always double-check your answers to be sure they make sense!
Labeling Your Sides and Angles: When solving problems, clearly label your sides and angles. This will help you avoid getting confused later on.